Ibuprofen can cause your blood pressure drugs to be less effective, as can other medications. There’s a good chance you may be taking one or more of them. Several popular over-the-counter (OTC) remedies do that, including some antacids, as well as a number of prescription drugs.
Proper blood pressure control is important for your cardiovascular health. So it’s wise to key an eye on your blood pressure readings if you’re taking anything that could cause a problem. That includes vitamins and other supplements that can affect your blood pressure.
This article looks at common drug types that can make your hypertension (high blood pressure) worse. It also discusses what they’re typically used to treat and what you can try instead, keeping in mind that you should always discuss medication used with your healthcare provider.
1.Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most popular over-the-counter (OTC) medicines in the world. They’re used to:
Treat headaches
Reduce fever
At higher doses, alleviate pain and inflammation
While NSAIDs are typically safe, prolonged use can raise your blood pressure.
Long-term use has also been linked to changes in kidney function. The kidneys play a key role in blood pressure regulation. There’s research evidence that finds NSAIDs may increase cardiovascular risks, like heart attack and stroke, in some people.
2.Nasal Decongestants
Decongestants slow the production of mucus, which can clog breathing passages.
They do this by constricting blood vessels in your nose and sinuses. That opens airways and makes you feel less stuffed up from colds or allergies.
3.Multi-Symptom Cold and Flu Remedies
Dozens of combination pills, syrups, and tablets are marketed for cold and flu symptoms. Each has a different blend of similar ingredients. These include:
Decongestants
NSAIDs or Tylenol (acetaminophen)
Cough suppressants
Constricted blood vessels and fluid retention are effects of these drugs when taken together. They can cause short-term blood pressure increases and make your treatment less effective.
4.Hormonal Birth Control
Virtually all hormonal birth control pills, patches, and devices can raise blood pressure.
Blood-vessel constriction is a common side effect of these products. They often have a larger effect on women who smoke, are overweight, or are over age 35.6
Oral contraceptives with lower-dose estrogen may have lesser effects on blood pressure. If you still have a problem while taking these, you may need to consider other forms of birth control.
Increased Monitoring
Not all women are affected by hormonal birth control. But if you have hypertension, your healthcare provider will likely want to monitor you closely. Ideally, you should get checked every six to 12 months.
5.Antidepressant Drugs
Antidepressants change the activity of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) tied to mood. They include:
Serotonin
Norepinephrine
Dopamine
These drugs increase your levels of adrenaline and other stimulating hormones. That can increase blood pressure.
Dopamine is even used in emergencies to raise critically low blood pressure.
Summary
Drugs that increase blood pressure either constrict blood vessels, increase fluid retention, or raise hormone levels. Use care with NSAIDs, decongestants, combination cold and flu medicines, hormonal birth control, and antidepressants.
Post time: May-05-2023